DC Councilmember Trayon White Sr. Faces Bribery Charges for Contract Manipulations

A District of Columbia councilmember, Trayon White Sr., has been accused of accepting over USD 150,000 in bribes to influence city contracts for violence intervention services. White, a Democrat who ran for mayor in 2022, was arrested on Sunday and released after a brief court appearance on Monday. His attorney has not commented on the allegations.

White allegedly agreed to accept around USD 156,000 in kickbacks and cash payments in June to pressure government employees to extend contracts worth over USD 5 million for two companies. Additionally, he accepted a USD 20,000 bribe to help resolve a contract dispute by pressuring high-level district officials.

Bribery Allegations

An FBI informant, who has agreed to plead guilty to fraud and bribery charges, reported giving White gifts such as travel to the Dominican Republic and Las Vegas, along with paying him bribes. The FBI affidavit details these allegations against White.

White's chief of staff and spokesperson did not respond to emails seeking comment. During his court appearance, White placed his hand on his heart and acknowledged his supporters. One supporter sobbed in the gallery. White answered routine questions from the judge but did not address the allegations.

Political Background

White has served on the DC council since 2017, representing a predominantly Black ward with a poverty rate nearly double that of the overall district. He is running for re-election in November against a Republican challenger. In 2020, Mayor Muriel Bower defeated White and another council member in the Democratic primary.

White is known for promoting antisemitic conspiracy theories. In March 2018, he posted a video on Facebook claiming that an unexpected snowfall was due to "the Rothschilds controlling the climate to create natural disasters." The Rothschilds are a Jewish family often targeted by conspiracy theories.

Controversial Statements

At the time, White claimed he was unaware that the weather-related conspiracy theory was antisemitic. A video later surfaced showing him pushing a similar theory during a meeting with top city officials. He questioned whether the Rothschilds controlled the World Bank and the federal government.

White's political career began as a grassroots community activist and protégé of former Mayor Marion Barry, who also represented the same ward on the council. Despite his controversial statements and recent legal troubles, White continues to have support within his community.

The magistrate judge warned White that he could be jailed before trial if he violates any conditions of his release. The case continues to unfold as authorities investigate further into the bribery allegations against him.

White's involvement in these alleged activities raises significant concerns about corruption within local government. The outcome of this case will likely impact his political future and ongoing re-election campaign.

The allegations against White highlight broader issues of accountability and ethics in public office. As this case progresses, it will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.